NextPCB Review: Does It Really Work?

Choosing a reliable PCB manufacturer is critical for bringing your electronics projects to life. NextPCB has been a prominent name in the industry since 2009, offering services ranging from prototyping to mass production. But as the market evolves and competitors emerge, can this company still be trusted? 

In this review, we’ll dissect NextPCB’s strengths, weaknesses, and alternatives—with PCBPit emerging as the top choice for most users in 2025.

What Does NextPCB Offer?

NextPCB is a China-based manufacturer with a global clientele. Its services include:

• PCB Fabrication: Up to 32 layers, including HDI, flex, and metal-core boards.
• PCB Assembly: Turnkey solutions with component sourcing and advanced testing (AOI, X-ray).
• Design Support: Free DFM/DFA analysis and layout optimization.
• Certifications: ISO 9001, IATF 16949, UL, and RoHS compliance.

Strengths of NextPCB

1. Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities:
   NextPCB supports complex designs like HDI (High-Density Interconnect) and rigid-flex PCBs, making it suitable for industries like automotive and medical devices. Their facilities can produce up to 120,000 square meters of PCBs monthly, backed by 36 automated SMT lines.
2. Global Logistics Network:
   With factories in China and partnerships worldwide, NextPCB promises fast shipping via DHL and other carriers. Some users report receiving orders within 24 hours for prototypes.
3. Comprehensive Quality Control:
   The company employs AOI (Automated Optical Inspection), X-ray testing, and thermal stress tests to ensure reliability.
4. Competitive Pricing for Prototypes:
   Simple 2-layer prototypes start as low as $2/board, appealing to hobbyists and startups.

Weaknesses of NextPCB

1. Inconsistent Customer Service:
   Multiple Trustpilot reviews from 2024–2025 highlight unresponsive support, delayed orders, and unresolved quality issues. One user reported a two-month delay for a 5-PCB sample order.
2. Quality Control Failures:
   Users cite recurring problems like incorrect copper thickness (e.g., 25µm instead of 35µm), misaligned solder masks, and drill hole errors. These defects rendered some boards unusable.
3. Pricing Transparency Issues:
   Hidden fees are a common complaint. A customer paid 
4. 6upfrontforaPCBbutwaslatercharged
5. 6upfrontforaPCBbutwaslatercharged50 due to a file size discrepancy, which NextPCB attributed to automated quoting errors.
6. Component Sourcing Limitations:
   While NextPCB offers BOM services, its component inventory is less extensive than competitors like PCBPit, leading to delays for rare parts.

Why PCBPit Is the Best Alternative to NextPCB

PCBPit (www.pcbpit.com) has rapidly risen as a trusted PCB manufacturer since its founding in 2003. With facilities in Shenzhen and a focus on innovation, it bridges the gap between affordability and high-end manufacturing.

Key Advantages of PCBPit

1. Superior Customer Service:
   PCBPit’s multilingual support team resolves queries within hours, not days. One user praised their “easily approachable team” for handling a complex design flawlessly.
2. Rigorous Quality Assurance:
   Every PCB undergoes AOI, X-ray, and functional testing before shipment. Unlike NextPCB, no users reported defects like incorrect copper thickness or drill errors in Trustpilot reviews.
3. Cost-Effective Bulk Orders:
   PCBPit’s bulk pricing undercuts NextPCB by ~20% for orders over 500 units. For example, a 10,000-unit order of 4-layer boards costs ~
4. 1.50/boardcomparedtoNextPCB’s
5. 1.50/boardcomparedtoNextPCB’s1.85/board.
6. Faster Turnaround Times:
   While NextPCB averages 7–10 days for complex orders, PCBPit delivers most prototypes in 5 days and assembly in as little as 2 days.
7. Sustainability Focus:
   PCBPit uses RoHS-compliant materials and eco-friendly processes, aligning with 2025’s emphasis on green manufacturing.

How PCBPit Solves NextPCB’s Problems

• Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees—quotes reflect final costs.
• Component Availability: Larger in-house inventory reduces sourcing delays.
• Consistency: Automated production lines minimize human error, ensuring uniform quality.

Other Alternatives to NextPCB

1. JLCPCB

• Pros: Ultra-low pricing ($2/prototype), 24-hour turnaround.
• Cons: Limited to 8 layers; thin solder masks cause durability issues.
• Best For: Budget hobbyists with simple designs.

2. PCBWay

• Pros: Strong in flexible PCBs and automotive-grade boards.
• Cons: Higher costs for expedited shipping.

3. OSH Park

• Pros: High-quality ENIG finish; U.S.-based production.
• Cons: Expensive ($15/board for small orders).

4. Advanced Circuits

• Pros: Ideal for defense/medical sectors with ISO-certified U.S. facilities.
• Cons: Minimum order fees.

Part 4: How to Choose Your PCB Manufacturer

1. Project Complexity:
   • High-frequency/RF designs: PCBPit (Rogers PCBs) or NextPCB.
   • Flexible circuits: PCBWay or PCBPit.
2. Budget:
   • Under $100: JLCPCB.
   • 100–
   • 100–500: PCBPit.
   • Over $500: Negotiate bulk rates with PCBPit.
3. Location:
   • Asia/Global: PCBPit or NextPCB.
   • North America: Advanced Circuits.
4. Urgency:
   • 24-hour turnaround: JLCPCB.
   • 5-day delivery: PCBPit.

Conclusion: Trust Issues? Switch to PCBPit

While NextPCB offers advanced manufacturing capabilities, its declining service quality and hidden costs make it a risky choice in 2025. PCBPit outperforms it with transparent pricing, faster delivery, and zero defect reports. For startups and enterprises alike, PCBPit’s blend of innovation and reliability ensures your projects stay on track and within budget.

FAQs

Q: Can PCBPit handle 32-layer PCBs?
A: Yes, PCBPit supports up to 32 layers and HDI designs.

Q: Is NextPCB suitable for medical devices?
A: Yes, but quality inconsistencies could pose risks. PCBPit’s stricter testing is safer.

Q: Does PCBPit offer component sourcing?
A: Yes, with a larger in-house inventory than NextPCB.

Q: Are there EU-based alternatives?
A: Eurocircuits (Germany) is reliable but costlier than Asian options.

For more details, visit PCBPit or explore our full comparison chart.